Sources who witnessed the incident said that Pochettino and his assistant Jesus Perez were clearly upset as they left the scene, with staff at the training ground also saddened by what happened.

In a statement confirming Ehiogu’s death, Tottenham said: “It is with immense sadness that we announce the passing of Ugo Ehiogu, our Under-23 coach.

“Ugo received immediate treatment after suffering a cardiac arrest at the Training Centre yesterday before being transferred to hospital, where he passed away in the early hours of the morning.”

Head of coaching and player development John McDermott said: “Words cannot express the shock and sadness that we all feel at the club. Ugo’s immense presence will be irreplaceable. Our heartfelt sympathies go out to his wife Gemma and his family.”

Everyone at United is saddened to learn of the tragic death of Ugo Ehiogu. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and colleagues. pic.twitter.com/eV8l5lgHLl